Phoenix Mercury star, Diana Taurasi headlines the ESPN Body issue, posing in a precarious position during the recent photoshoot. This type of behavior is a first for for former UConn Huskies star as she normally isn't pictured in this light.

Taurasi stepped outside of her comfort zone when she agreed to be part of the cover for this exclusive magazine. "Doing the shoot was something new and I had fun with it," said Taurasi. "For me, doing this was about facing the challenge and celebrating everything all of our bodies have been through and done.

She has tremendous skills on the basketball court and recently led Team USA to a gold medal in the FIBA World Championship. Many of her former UConn teammates were on the team along with her and their coach, Geno Auriemma.

There's sure to be a lot of interest in this magazine as ESPN has been able to lock other big-name athletes to participate in the magazine's second edition.

Taurasi is featured in two photographs: one pictures her on the cover with a tattoo revealed on her side, and the other, a picture of the athlete with a basketball strategically placed to cover up certain areas of the body.

Nonetheless, this was something that I never expected from Taurasi, but I must say, judging by the cover, it came out fabulous.

The Body Issue hits news stands on October 8th and I'm sure many people will be anxious to get their very own copy. Take advantage of it, I imagine it is full of entertainment and great pictures.